The sound of clinking mugs, people walking around in Lederhosen and Dirndls, traditional Bavarian folk music resounding as you walk through packed tents filled with merriment and laughter, Oktoberfest has quickly made it into every traveller’s bucket list. Spanning 16 days, this Bavarian folk festival celebrates Bavarian culture and lore. What began as a public celebration of the marriage between the crown Prince Ludwig and his wife Therese is now the largest folk festival in the world. So, what can we expect from Oktoberfest 2024?
Onboard Luxury and Comfort at Oktoberfest
Your vacation begins when you step out of your door, with Munich’s airports impeccably crafted to greet you in ultimate luxury and comfort. Whether you’re flying commercial or via private jets, the Munich airport offers you multiple options to travel comfortably and in style. Situated approximately 30 kilometres from the Oktoberfest grounds, the Munich airport offers excellent transfer service right to the doorstep of your hotel. The Munich Airport also provides exclusive facilities for private jets and helicopter services, thereby offering a spectacular arrival in Munich, with panoramic views of the city and the iconic festival grounds.
Check-In and Unwind: Munich’s Best Luxury Hotels Await
Hotel Bayerischer Hof:
This high-end hotel, located 35 km away, is now a beacon of luxury and elegance in Munich. Its opulent rooms, popular spa, and delectable food have made it a top-tier accommodation choice, especially during Oktoberfest. It is specifically known for the gourmet dining one can indulge in at the ‘Garden Restaurant’.
Hotel Vier Jahreszeiten Kempinski, Munich:
Another strong contender for luxury stays is Hotel Vier Jahreszeiten Kempinski Munich. Situated in the city centre, just a stone’s throw away from Lehel U-Bahn station and the city’s main square, Marienplatz, the hotel provides visitors with a classic Bavarian experience.
Mandarin Oriental, Munich:
With the 1880s opera house as its setting and its proximity to the former royal palace Munich Residenz, the Mandarin Oriental gives you royal treatment from the moment you step in. With its exclusive ambience, impeccable service, and renowned Matsuhisa Munich restaurant, it ranks among the finest hotels in the city.
Main Attractions at Oktoberfest 2024
Rides at Oktoberfest:
Designed to thrill adrenaline seekers of all ages, the rides at Oktoberfest are an absolute must-try. Among the most popular are the beloved swing carousel, the legendary Teufelsrad (Devil’s Wheel), which is a Bavarian cult favourite, the symbol of Oktoberfest: the Ferris Wheel, The Five Loops, which claims to be the largest roller coaster in the world, VR rides, and much more.
Historical Side of Oktoberfest:
Every part of the festival has a cultural element. From the rides and cultural program to the Tradition tent managed by Winklhofer and Wieser host families, which showcased a lot of brass band music and presentations by Bavarian traditional costume societies, the musician tents, and the museum tents, Oktoberfest offers a myriad of historical experiences for guests.
Oktoberfest Booths:
These booths make Oktoberfest unforgettable: A visit to Oktoberfest isn’t complete unless you’ve laughed at the Vogelpfeifer whistle, strengthened your muscles at the Hau den Lukas strongman contest, or purchased a classic Lebkuchen gingerbread heart.
What’s New at Oktoberfest 2024?
Interactive Experiences:
Oktoberfest 2024, this year, featured fascinating new attractions such as Laser-Pix, an innovative interactive ride that allows spectators to actively engage in a video game experience. Riders, armed with miniature handguns, shoot at concealed, moving, and animated targets on the unexpected route, adding to the sense of adventure and competitiveness. Another standout is Big Picture 2.0, a 12D cinema that totally immerses the audience in an adventure plot with fantastic special effects such as wind, rain, and snow, making you feel like you’re right in the middle of the action. Both attractions offer a memorable thrill for festival attendees.
New at Oidn Weisn:
This year, the festival features a Holzpfosten-Scooter, a classic bumper car from the 1960s— 1970s that has become an integral part of Bavarian history. Another historical introduction to the festival is the new musician tent, ‘the Boandlkramerei,’ where well-known folk artists perform on stage.
Fresh Additions to the Culinary Sector:
‘Corn in a Cup’ is a new addition to the Oktoberfest culinary scene, serving excellent loose corn with a choice of sauces, spices and garnishes. Another new addition, the ‘AuerOx & Suppenküche’ booth, serves a delicious combination of favourites such as the organic ox shred bun and Munich fried chicken, tempting vegetarian alternatives and handmade soups and stews produced with locally sourced ingredients. Furthermore, the initiative ‘Wiesn for All’ intends to revitalise the Mittagswiesn (Monday through Friday till 5 p.m.) at Münchner Stubn, guaranteeing that everyone may experience the festival flavours.
Accessibility:
For the first time, Oktoberfest provides personalised maps of the festival tents to guests with disabilities. Information regarding barrier-free entrances, seating for the disabled, and barrier-free toilets is enclosed.
Off The Beaten Path: Unforgettable Experiences Beyond Oktoberfest
Explore the Munich Residenz:
Situated in the heart of Munich, the Residenz is the former royal palace of the Wittelsbach dynasty, once home to the monarchs of Bavaria. Revered as one of the largest city palaces in Germany, the palace boasts magnificent architecture and picturesque gardens. With royal collections that speak of the history of Bavaria, this is a must-visit for anyone who wants to learn about Bavarian culture.
Visit the Neuschwanstein Castle:
If you want to continue your history/cultural tour of Germany, the Neuschwanstein Castle is a must-visit. Overlooking the Alps, near the border of Austria, this stunning castle is right out of a fairytale book.
Go on a Munich City Tour:
The best way to experience all of Munich’s attractions is through a city tour. Explore hidden gems, local hotspots and historical landmarks through the eyes of Bavarian locals to experience the city at its best.
Conclusion
Over the years, Oktoberfest has made a name for itself as one of the most celebrated festivals in the world, and this year was no different! With its rich history, lively atmosphere, and enticing new attractions, this year’s event has something for everyone. From immersive rides and gastronomic pleasures to lavish lodgings and historical insights, Oktoberfest has evolved while keeping loyal to its origins.
Guests participated in the exciting events, generating wonderful experiences that encapsulated the heart of Bavaria. Whether hoisting a pint in one of the renowned beer tents or savouring great local cuisine, Oktoberfest 2024 was an unforgettable event that exemplified the spirit of celebration and camaraderie. Attendees joined in on the fun, making this year’s festival a highlight of their trip experiences!
